Newaygo Public Schools Newsletter
Every Lion Matters, Every Roar Counts
Start the New Year with Purpose and Possibility
Did you know that 9 out of 10 people will fail with their New Year’s resolutions?
It’s a daunting statistic, but it doesn’t have to be your story.
For years, I was the type to set ambitious New Year’s goals. I’d begin with enthusiasm and a clear plan, but by March—or sometimes even February—those goals had faded into the background. Sound familiar?
Then I discovered something that changed everything: One Word.
I first heard about this idea from Jon Gordon. Instead of creating a laundry list of resolutions, you choose one guiding word for the year. Just one. A word that inspires. A word that challenges. A word that keeps you focused on becoming the best version of yourself.
And it works.
Why One Word?
Because it simplifies.
Because it sticks.
Because it focuses your energy in a powerful way.
As we turn the page to 2025—a year of hope, dreams, and fresh opportunities—I encourage you to think about your one word. It’s a way to set a meaningful tone for the year, whether you’re an adult looking to grow or a child learning to dream big.
The key is to keep your word visible. Write it down. Post it somewhere you’ll see every day. Make it part of your mindset.
Let me share a bit about my own journey:
- Two years ago, my word was Believe. I needed to trust in myself, my family, and the changes life was bringing. That belief carried me through a year of transition.
- Last year, my word was Opportunity. I challenged myself to see every situation, whether a win or a challenge, as a chance to grow. It transformed my perspective.
- This year, my word is Health. Physical health. Mental health. Emotional health. For me, 2025 is about prioritizing balance and well-being, not just for myself but for those I lead and care about.
Now it’s your turn.
What drives you? Is it resolutions? Big goals? Or maybe, like me, you’ll find inspiration in one simple word.
Whatever you choose, know this: Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. It requires effort, focus, and a willingness to stretch yourself. But the rewards? They’re immeasurable.
So as you step into this new year, embrace the promise it holds. Choose to grow, to learn, and to rise. Let’s make 2025 the year we all reach new heights—together.
What will your word be?
#TogetherWeRoar
Building Confidence From Within
“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.”
It’s a timeless sentiment—and an empowering one at that. But for many children, especially in today’s fast-paced and hyper-connected world, embracing this advice feels easier said than done.
Did you know that children as young as two years old begin to care about their reputations? Research has shown that even toddlers adjust their behavior when they know they’re being observed.
As parents, this awareness is both fascinating and concerning. On the one hand, caring about what others think is part of forming healthy relationships. But on the other hand, when children care too much—when they begin to base their self-worth solely on external validation—they risk losing touch with their intrinsic value.
The Balance Between Acceptance and Authenticity
The desire to feel accepted is natural. It connects us to others and helps us build relationships. But there is incredible power in teaching our kids to value their own opinions and self-worth above the fleeting judgments of others.
Here are three strategies to help your child navigate social pressures, build self-confidence, and focus on what truly matters.
1. Encourage Self-Reflection
To value their opinions, kids must first know them. This starts with self-awareness, which grows when we give children the time and space to reflect on their thoughts, values, and beliefs.
One simple way to foster this is by making reflection part of daily conversations. The next time your child seeks your advice or shares a concern about what others think, respond with curiosity. Ask, “What do you think?” or “What feels right to you?” instead of offering immediate solutions.
Additional ways to nurture self-reflection include:
- Daily rituals: Start family meetings or incorporate reflective questions into your morning or evening routines.
- Gratitude practice: End each day by asking, “What went well today?” or “What are you grateful for?”
- Rephrasing for clarity: Reflect their words back to them (“It sounds like you feel proud of your project. Is that right?”) to help them process their feelings.
2. Broaden Their Horizons
For many kids, school feels like their entire world. It’s where friendships are formed, challenges are faced, and insecurities often take root.
When a recess argument or a lunchroom snub leaves them feeling excluded, it’s easy for kids to lose perspective. We can help them see that life—and relationships—extend far beyond the walls of school.
Encourage your child to create a “friendship tree,” naming friends from different parts of their life: sports teams, clubs, neighborhood, or family gatherings. This exercise helps them recognize the diverse connections they’ve built, showing them that one rough moment at school doesn’t define their worth.
3. Keep It in Perspective
As an educator, I often meet students who feel deeply anxious after a social interaction has gone awry. Their primary concern? How they were perceived.
A simple, calming reminder I often share is this: “The only person thinking about YOU is YOU.” Yes, their peer might be reflecting on the situation too—but likely from their own perspective, wondering how they came across. This gentle reframing often helps students let go of unnecessary worries and focus on what they can control: their own actions and feelings.
Supporting Your Child’s Journey
It’s never easy to see your child struggle with anxiety or self-doubt. But as parents, you have the unique ability to guide them toward self-awareness and increased confidence. By fostering self-reflection, broadening their horizons, and keeping challenges in perspective, you’re equipping them with tools that will serve them for a lifetime.
Remember, self-worth begins at home. With your support and encouragement, your child can learn to embrace who they are—and grow into their best, most authentic self.
#TogetherWeRoar
An article written with support from Rebecca Louick
